California Arts Standards, Formatted by Leila J, Levi, MFA, 2007-2008
1.0 ARTISTIC PERCEPTION: Processing, Analyzing, and Responding to Sensory Information
Through the Language and Skills Unique to the Visual Arts
Students perceive and respond to works of art, objects in nature, events, and
the environment. They also use the vocabulary of the visual arts to express their
observations.
Develop Perceptual Skills and Visual Arts Vocabulary
1.1 Identify and use the principles of design to discuss, analyze, and write about
visual aspects in the environment and in works of art, including their own.
1.2 Describe the principles of design as used in works of art, focusing on dominance
and subordination.
Analyze Art Elements and Principles of Design
1.3 Research and analyze the work of an artist and write about the artist’s
distinctive style and its contribution to the meaning of the work.
1.4 Analyze and describe how the composition of a work of art is affected by the use
of a particular principle of design.
Impact of Media Choice
1.5 Analyze the material used by a given artist and describe how its use influences
the meaning of the work.
1.6 Compare and contrast similar styles of works of art done in electronic media with
those done with materials traditionally used in the visual arts (P. 152).
2.0 CREATIVE EXPRESSION: Creating, Performing, and Participating in the Visual Arts
Students apply artistic processes and skills, using a variety of media to
communicate meaning and intent in original works of art.
Skills, Processes, Materials, and Tools
2.1 Solve a visual arts problem that involves the effective use of principles of
design.
2.2 Prepare a portfolio of original two- and three-dimensional works of art that
reflects refined craftsmanship and technical skills.
2.3 Develop and refine skill in the manipulation of digital imagery (either still or
video).
2.4 Review and refine observational drawing skills.
Communication and Expression Through Original Works of Art 2.5 Create an expressive
composition, focusing on dominance and subordination.
2.6 Create a two- or three-dimensional work of art that addresses a social issue.
3.0 HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL CONTEXT: Understanding the Historical Contributions and
Cultural Dimensions of the Visual Arts
Students analyze the role and development of the visual arts in past and
present cultures throughout the world, noting human diversity as it relates to the
visual arts and artists.
Role and Development of the Visual Arts
3.1 Identify similarities and differences in the purposes of art created
3.2 Identify and describe the role and influence of new technologies on contemporary
works of art.
Diversity of the Visual Arts
3.3 Identify and describe trends in the visual arts and discuss how the issues of
time, place, and cultural influence are reflected in selected works of art.
3.4 Discuss the purposes of art in selected contemporary cultures (p. 153).
4.0 AESTHETIC VALUING: Responding to, Analyzing, and Making Judgments About Works in
the Visual Arts
Students analyze, assess, and derive meaning from works of art, including their
own, according to the elements of art, the principles of design, and aesthetic
qualities.
Derive Meaning
4.1 Articulate how personal beliefs, cultural traditions, and current social,
political contexts influence the interpretation of the meaning or message in a work
of art.
4.2 Compare the ways in which the meaning of a specific work of art has been affected
over time because of changes in interpretation and context.
Make Informed Judgments
4.3 Formulate and support a position regarding the aesthetic value of a specific work
of art and change or defend that position after considering the views of others.
4.4 Articulate the process and rationale for refining and reworking one of their own
works of art.
4.5 Employ the conventions of art criticism in writing and speaking about works of
art.
5.0 CONNECTIONS, RELATIONSHIPS, APPLICATIONS: Connecting and Applying What Is Learned
in the Visual Arts to Other Art Forms and Subject Areas and to Careers
Students apply what they learn in the visual arts across subject areas. They
develop competencies and creative skills in problem solving, communication, and
management of time and resources that contribute to lifelong learning and career
skills. They also learn about careers in and related to the visual arts.
Connections and Applications
5.1 Design an advertising campaign for a theatre or dance production creating images
that represent characters and major events in the production.
5.2 Create a work of art that communicates a cross-cultural or universal theme taken
from literature or history.
Visual Literacy
5.3 Compare and contrast the ways in which different media (television, newspapers,
magazines) cover the same art exhibition.
Careers and Career-Related Skills
5.4 Demonstrate an understanding of the various skills of an artist, art critic, art
historian, art collector, art gallery owner, and philosopher of art (aesthetician)
(P. 154).
Note: The proficient level of achievement for students in grades nine through twelve
can be attained at the end of one year of high school study within the discipline of
the visual arts after the student has attained the level of achievement in visual
arts required of all students in grade eight (p. 152).